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BEYOND THE CITY

the divided skirt are what she believes in?”

“Yes."

“We must get in some cloth."

“Why?"

“We must make ourselves a dress each, A brand-new, enfranchised, emancipated dress, dear. Don’t you see my plan? We shall act up to all Mrs. Westmacott’s views in every respect, and improve them when we can. Then papa will know what it is to live with a woman who claims all her rights. Oh, Ciara, it will be splendid.”

Her milder sister sat speechless before so daring a scheme. “But it would be wrong, Ida!" she cried at last.

“Not a bit. It ts to save him.“

“I should not dare.”

“Oh, yes, you would. Harold will help. Besides, what other plan have you?”

“I have none."

“Then you must take mine.”

“Yes. Perhaps you are right. Well, we do it for a good motive.”

“You will do it?"

“I do not see any other way.”

“You dear good Clara! Now I will show you what you are to do. We must not begin too suddenly. It might excite suspicion.”

“What would you do, then?”

“To-morrow we must go to Mrs. Westmacott,